Katie Hopkins criticised over Twitter comments about dementia patients 'blocking beds'

Controversial columnist Katie Hopkins has been condemned by a leading charity after she said dementia patients “should not be blocking beds”.

The reality television star wrote on Twitter: “Dementia sufferers should not be blocking beds. What is the point of life when you no longer know you are living it? Bang me over the head.”

The 39-year-old, who is famed for her outspoken comments, sent the message to her 574,000 followers on Monday morning.

George McNamara, head of policy and public affairs at the Alzheimer’s Society, said: “These disgraceful remarks only serve to reinforce the stigma that sadly prevents many people with dementia from feeling like valued members of society.

“Ill-informed comments such as these go against all that we know about dementia. People with the condition tell us that with the right support it is entirely possible to live well and take real enjoyment out of daily life.

“The 850,000 people living with dementia in the UK deserve far more than to be used as bait for people stoking controversy.”

Hundreds of Twitter users posted messages criticising the TV pundit’s remarks.

Gregor Stewart wrote: “You’re an absolute attention seeking vile b***h who needs to have social media sites shut you down.”

Psychologist Alys Griffiths tweeted: “Disgusted by @KTHopkins. Having #dementia does not mean you stop deserving health care or having basic human rights.”

Another Twitter user posted: “I can’t believe the things that come of your mouth. Heartless b***h. Dementia is a horrible disease.”

Last week Hopkins, who writes a column in The Sun newspaper, was accused of behaving in "a dangerously provocative way" after she suggested Pakistani men in the Rochdale area were sex abusers.